Tropical Bugs & Insects

The glasshouse contains several large tanks, housing habitats for the Botanic Garden’s collection of tropical insects and bugs. Seeing these creatures up-close is a highlight of many people’s tour of the Garden, especially children!

Our family of insects, arachnids and other creepy-crawlies stretches from around the world, with tropical beetles and millipedes accompanying scorpions from the dry heat of the desert. The collection’s centrepiece is our tarantulas, huge spiders that scare and fascinate in equal measure.

During specially organised events, our gardeners bring out the insects for closer inspection by the public. Children may even have to opportunity to handle the creatures (don’t worry, they’re not dangerous)!

Download the Nature Trail

Suitable for young children, this activity teaches about the wildlife in the garden, allowing kids to colour in pictures of animals as they find them hidden in their natural habitats around the garden.